Omaha police say the “Cops” crew member who was shot and killed during a police shootout with an armed robbery suspect was hit by gunfire from police … NOT from the suspect’s weapon.

Omaha PD just held a news conference to discuss the details surrounding the death of Bryce Dion — a sound supervisor who was part of a 2-person “Cops” camera crew. They called it a tragic case of “friendly fire.”

According to police … Dion and his partner were riding with a patrol unit that responded to the armed robbery call at a Wendy’s. Police say Dion was in the entryway of the restaurant when the suspect fired shots … and police returned fire with multiple rounds.

Investigators say Dion was caught in the crossfire … hit by a bullet or bullets from a police weapon. They say Dion was wearing an armored vest, but the bullet went through the arm hole of the vest.

Omaha PD was also adamant — the officers were NOT showing off for the camera when they opened fire on the suspect — who also died from gunshot wounds.

Omaha police were not aware that while the suspect’s weapon “looked and sounded” real firearm, it was actually a pellet gun.

Dion was a seven-year veteran of the show, and had bonded with the Omaha police officers over a two-month filming period. “The guys he was riding with were truly befriended by him, and he befriended them.” Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said at today’s news conference.

Cops creator John Langley has temporarily suspended filming, the show had a week left on the schedule.